Functions and Composition of Blood & Immune System Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the functions and composition of blood, as well as the lymphatic and immune systems for exam preparation.

What are the main transportation functions of blood?

Delivering oxygen and nutrients to body cells; transporting metabolic wastes to lungs and kidneys; transporting hormones from endocrine organs to target organs.

What are the regulatory functions of blood?

Maintaining body temperature, normal pH using buffers, and adequate fluid volume in the circulatory system.

What is the pH range of blood?

7.35 to 7.45.

What are erythrocytes?

Red blood cells dedicated to respiratory gas transport, filled with hemoglobin.

What hormone regulates erythropoiesis?

Erythropoietin (EPO).

What are the steps of hemostasis?

1. Vascular spasm 2. Platelet plug formation 3. Coagulation.

What is the function of platelets in the blood?

Form temporary platelet plugs to prevent blood loss.

What is the significance of the lymphatic system?

Returns leaked fluids back to the blood, supports the immune system, and houses phagocytic cells and lymphocytes.

What are the primary lymphoid organs?

Red bone marrow and thymus.

What are two types of adaptive immunity?

Humoral (antibody-mediated) immunity and cellular (cell-mediated) immunity.

What are the five classes of antibodies?

IgM, IgA, IgD, IgG, IgE.

What are macrophages and dendritic cells responsible for?

Presenting antigens to T cells.

What is the first line of defense in innate immunity?

Physical barriers such as skin and mucous membranes.

What is the process of phagocytosis?

1. Recognize pathogen's carbohydrate signature 2. Opsonization 3. Engulfing the pathogen 4. Fusion with lysosome 5. Digestion of particles 6. Exocytosis of waste.

Define antigens in the context of adaptive immunity.

Substances that mobilize adaptive defenses, typically large, complex molecules.

What is the function of the spleen in the lymphatic system?

Lymphocyte proliferation, blood cleansing, and storage of blood components.